ALSA has started receiving high-power Euro 6000 locomotives to support the expansion of its rail freight activities on the Iberian-gauge network. The first locomotive, leased from Alpha Trains, has appeared on rails.
The Euro 6000 manufactured by Stadler, is designed for heavy freight operations and is certified for use on both 1.5 kV DC and 25 kV AC electrified lines. This dual-voltage capability allows the locomotive to operate on major freight corridors, including those in the Mediterranean and Atlantic axes.
With six axles and a maximum power of 6 MW under 25 kV AC, the Euro 6000 enables longer and heavier trains on gradients and mixed-traffic lines. This fleet addition follows a trend among other Spanish operators that have incorporated the same model into their rolling stock portfolios in recent years.
The company stated that this move is aligned with its aim to offer transport solutions that respond to evolving customer demands and operational requirements. ALSA’s entry into rail freight operations began in 2022 after obtaining the relevant safety certification, and it has since expanded its intermodal services.
The delivery of the Euro 6000 locomotives continues the rollout of this type across Spain’s liberalised freight market. ALSA joins a growing list of new operators (such as Low Cost Rail, Rail&Truck, Go Transport) that have opted for this model to run long-distance and cross-border services along with major players on the market such as Renfe Mercancías, Medway, Continental Rail, Transfesa, or Captrain España. The locomotives will be deployed on routes where high tractive effort and route flexibility are required.
ALSA is primarily known for its passenger transport operations. Its expansion into the rail freight segment reflects the increasing involvement of traditionally road-focused operators entering the railway market following liberalisation.
